+I. The history of the cross.+--It is a history of sin on our part,
and of suffering on the part of Christ. What a change has been
produced in the moral aspect of the universe by the preaching of the
cross!
+II. The odium connected with the cross.+--There is odium and
suffering connected with the cross still; in some shape we shall
suffer persecution for it. If we will lead a holy life, then
suffering, persecution, reproach, hatred and ill-will, sarcasm, wit,
ridicule, and obloquy will be cast upon us. It was said by one, when
several were expelled from one of our universities, that "if some are
expelled for having too much religion, it is high time to begin to
inquire whether there are not some who have too little." If we speak
of the reproach of the cross, what should that reproach be? Not that
you have too much religion, but that you have too little, and that
many of you have none at all.
+III. As to those who suffer persecution for the cross,+ it is the
greatest possible honour to be laughed at, mocked, and insulted for
the sake of the Saviour. If the spirit of the martyrs influenced us,
there would be no shunning of persecution on account of the cross,
but suffering would be welcomed with joy.--_The Pulpit._
_Christianity and Persecution._
+I. We should suspect ourselves+ that our hearts are not sound, nor
our practice sincere, +when all men speak well of us.+
II. We must not be discouraged +though there be never so many that
make opposition, or so mighty+ that raise persecution against
us.
III. That we think it not strange +when we find affliction or meet
with persecution.+ The Gospel and persecution go hand in hand,
or follow one another inseparably.--_Perkins._